Saranac students in 'Charlotte's Web' production

Lowell Area Arts Council features locally touring play with a stop in Saranac

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By Karin Armbrusterkarin.armbruster@sentinel-standard.com

Ionia Sentinel - Standard-Ionia, MI

By Karin Armbrusterkarin.armbruster@sentinel-standard.com

Posted Jan. 30, 2013 at 4:47 PM
Updated Jan 30, 2013 at 5:45 PM

By Karin Armbrusterkarin.armbruster@sentinel-standard.com

Posted Jan. 30, 2013 at 4:47 PM
Updated Jan 30, 2013 at 5:45 PM

LOWELL, Mich.

Three students from Saranac Elementary School are part of a locally touring performance of "Charlotte's Web," which will make a stop at the Saranac High School auditorium Friday.

Allison Hamilton, 10, Faith Guernsey, 11 and Noah Guernsey, 9, are cast members of the production presented by Thebes Players of the Lowell Area Arts Council with Laura Leasure as director. The trio answered a casting call and have been rehearsing four days each week following Jan. 1 with students from Murray Lake Elementary School, Lowell Middle School, Alto Elementary School, Cherry Creek Elementary School and Forest Hills Central Middle School.

Hamilton, who plays the role of Fern, said she is excited to see Saranac community members in the audience and to be a part of "Charlotte's Web."

"I like how it's an emotional story and I like how the character is a girl, but also a tomboy," said Hamilton.

Leasure said she did not have a hard time picking Hamilton to play Fern.

"I just thought I needed a strong person for this character," said Leasure. "She just kind of fit the country girl part."

Hamilton added she feels confident about the show and the performances of her fellow actors, and believes the audience will enjoy it.

The Guernsey siblings also said they are looking forward to performing. Both play the part of sheep, and Noah Guernsey also plays an uncle.

"I loved the book so much and I watched the movie ... and I'm very dramatic," said Faith Guernsey about why she decided to audition for the production.

Noah said he jumped on board when he heard his sister wanted to audition, and is happy to be a part of the final product.

"I like it because I have to do two kinds of emotions (with my character)," said Noah Guernsey.

Leasure said she is excited for the audience to see the students and their talent on stage, which can show how theater can be fun and for every age.

"They're all doing a very good job," she said of the students.

Leasure added she is happy to showcase "Charlotte's Web," because she loves the story and it is such a classic tale children and adults know through the book and the film. In addition, she said she is looking forward to having a public performance at Saranac High School because she feels it is underused and has top-notch sound and lighting.

"I can't wait to be there," she added. "I think you'll have a better quality experience."

The play is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Tickets to the performance are at $1 at the door. Saranac High School is located at 150 Pleasant St.